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OnePlus Pad Go with MediaTek Helio G99, 2.4K display launched in India

After a series of leaks and rumors, OnePlus has finally launched the Pad Go in India today. It is a watered-down version of the original OnePlus Pad, which was launched earlier this year. Here is how much the new Pad Go will cost, along with its other key specs.

OnePlus Pad Go Launched in India

OnePlus Pad Go Design and Display

The Pad Go looks similar to the regular OnePlus Pad, with a flat-edge design and a unique Oreo-style camera cutout in the middle of the back panel. It comes in a two-tone Twin Mint color finish.

On the front, there is an 11.35-inch IPS LCD display with a 2.4K resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The display is also TUV Rheinland certified for low blue light and supports DC dimming, both of which make it easier on the eyes. 

Additionally, there is a Bedtime Mode that can reduce the amount of brain-stimulating light emitted by the device in the hours before bedtime, helping you fall asleep more easily.

Like the original OnePlus Pad, the Pad Go has a 7:5 aspect ratio screen, which OnePlus claims provides more screen space for books, games, and web pages. Interestingly, the device also has 7.5mm bezels all around the display, which contributes to an 86.4% screen-to-body ratio.

Specifications

As for the performance, the Pad Go has a MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, up to 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of expandable storage. It runs on OxygenOS 13.2 based on Android 13 and has a 8000mAh battery with 33W fast charging.

Likewise, the camera hardware includes 8MP cameras on front and rear. Both cameras can record 1080p/30fps videos, but the rear camera also has EIS stabilization.

The Pad Go supports Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, and a USB-C port. It has 4G network connectivity, but no stylus support. 

There are also a few neat software tricks exclusive to OnePlus smartphone users. OnePlus phone users can seamlessly connect to the Pad Go when the two devices are near each other and logged into the same OnePlus account.

Similarly, with Screen Mirroring enabled on the Pad Go, you can control your phone on a larger screen in a floating window on the tablet. You can also drag and drop photos and other files between the two devices, and receive calls and notifications directly on the Pad Go.

The Pad Go can also share clipboard content and the photo gallery with OnePlus and Oppo phones, so you can view and edit them on a bigger screen.

Pricing and Availability

The OnePlus Pad Go will be available for open sale on October 20th and for pre-order on Amazon, Flipkart, and at OnePlus Experience Stores starting October 12th at 12pm IST. Here are the prices for OnePlus Pad Go in India:

  • 8GB+128GB WiFi only – INR 19,999
  • 8GB+128GB LTE – INR 21,999
  • 8GB+256GB LTE – INR 23,999

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Oppo Find N3 Flip launches in India on October 12

The Oppo Find N3 Flip was first announced in China back in August. Now, the company is gearing up to launch its flagship foldable smartphone in India later this month and the official release date has finally been revealed. So let’s have a look.

Oppo Find N3 Flip India Launch Date

The Chinese tech giant will announce the upcoming clamshell folding phone on 12th October 2023. This is in line with our previous report in which we spotted the smartphone being listed on Flipkart. This listing revealed that the Find N3 Flip model will go official on the same date as the Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale. In other words, the smartphone would be announced on October 12.

Oppo Find N3 Flip

As per an official announcement, the Oppo Find N3 Flip will be announced on 12th October 2023 at 7:00 PM IST in India. You can watch the live stream on YouTube. Talking about the device itself, the device sports a 6.8-inch E6 AMOLED display with a Full HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 1,600 nits of peak brightness, and TÜV Rheinland Intelligent Eye Care certification. Meanwhile, the cover display is a shorter 3.26-inch panel.

Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 SoC will power this device. The rear features a triple camera setup that consists of a 50-megapixel primary sensor, which is paired with a 32-megapixel telephoto shooter, and a 48-megapixel ultra wide angle lens. Other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, 44W fast charging, and more.

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Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 is finally here: Know key details

Google officially introduced the Android 14 a couple of days ago along with the launch of the Pixel 8 Series, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Buds Pro. Following these announcements, here comes the Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 which will launch as the December Pixel Feature Drop for Pixel devices. There are significant improvements in the Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 which will enhance the system stability and fix some animation stutters.

Must See: OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14 officially unveiled: Here’s what’s new

The Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 featuring October 2023 Security Patch is rolling out a couple of weeks after the initial QPR1 build. There are certain changes including some fixes for major bugs. It is compatible with the  Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold. The developers can obviously try it out with the Android Emulator.

The build U1B2.230922.006 weighs 129MB on Pixel 6, and it fixes some major issues as listed below:

  • Fixed an issue that sometimes caused the Settings app to crash when a user accessed system Bluetooth settings after pairing a device.
  • Fixed an issue on some devices where the scrolling animation sometimes stuttered or paused.
  • Fixed various issues that were impacting system stability and performance.

Apart from these, there are always general bug fixes and performance enhancements that improve the overall build.

The update also brings a dedicated Android Beta Feedback app for the submission of bugs and general issues. It will be out to the users who are already on the QPR1 build within the next few days. Or, the users can manually check by heading to Settings > System > System Update. The user who would want to manually flash the update can do so by downloading factory images or sideloading the OTA.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 series may feature a Titanium body, similar to the iPhone 15 Pro

As we get closer to 2024, rumors and leaks regarding the Samsung Galaxy S24 lineup of flagship smartphones have started surfacing online. Now, the latest reports hint that the Galaxy S24 series might follow Apple’s footsteps and use a new premium metal chassis.

Samsung Galaxy S24 series to launch with titanium body

According to known tipster Revengus on X (formerly Twitter), the South Korean tech giant is planning on using titanium for the Galaxy S24 series’ body. In other words, the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and the Galayxy S24 Ultra model might arrive with titanium frames. For a bit of context, Apple recently unveiled the iPhone 15 series, with the higher end Pro models offering a titanium frame as well. So it appears that Samsung may also offer a similar choice for its flagship smartphone lineup.

S24 Plus leaked render

The tipster further added that the brand could source the Titanium frames for the base model from its South Korean factory. However, Samsung might seek its partner companies to supply the titanium on the Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 Ultra models. Since these devices will feature titanium, we can also expect the upcoming premium phones to be slightly lighter than their previous iterations. Apple’s move to titanium was to lower the weight of the iPhones since steel is much heavier.

But since the new Samsung phones won’t likely see a drastic change, the company might use the new titanium frames as a marketing term to sell their premium devices. It is also worth noting that Revegnus’s tweet gota reply from another reputed tipster Ice Universe. The latter claims that only the Galaxy S24 Ultra will use the titanium frame. Regardless, the Galaxy S24 lineup is expected to launch in early 2024, so stick around for more updates.

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Asus TUF Gaming VG249Q3A 24″FHD monitor with 180Hz refresh rate available in India

After recently launching the TUF Gaming VG249Q3A monitor in the global market, Asus has now brought the monitor over to the Indian market. Let’s take a look at its specs, features, and pricing.

ASUS TUF Gaming VG249Q3A

Asus TUF Gaming VG249Q3A specs

The Asus TUF Gaming VG249Q3A is a great choice for gamers looking for a fast and smooth gaming experience. It has a 23.8-inch Full HD screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, delivering clear visuals. The monitor boasts a high 180Hz refresh rate and a quick 1ms response time.

It also comes with ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology, which reduces ghosting and motion blur, making games look better. Plus, it has AMD FreeSync Premium to prevent screen tearing while gaming.

This monitor has a wide color range (99% sRGB gamut) which is good for both gamers and creative professionals. It can adapt to your graphics card’s frame rate, reducing stuttering and tearing for a better gaming experience.

There’s also Shadow Boost technology that brightens dark areas without making bright areas too bright. This helps you see more details in shadows and dark scenes.

It’s got VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification for better HDR imagery. To protect your eyes during long gaming sessions, it has flicker-free technology and a Blue Light Filter.

The monitor’s stand is adjustable, so you can find the best viewing position for comfort. When it comes to connectivity, it has two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort input.

Pricing & availability

The TUF Gaming VG249Q3A 23.8″ 180 Hz Gaming Monitor is currently available on Primeabgb for Rs 17,999. It is also listed on Amazon India, however, it is currently unavailable to purchase.

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Honor X9B hits UAE’s TDRA, hints at upcoming launch

Honor introduced several new smartphones including the Honor V Purse, Honor X40 GT Racing, and a few others. The Chinese smartphone appears working on a new smartphone aka Honor X9B. Its predecessor – Honor X9A was launched last December in China. Followed by yesterday’s Singapore IMDA certification a day before, the smartphone pops up on the United Arab Emirates Certification Agency Website TDRA.

The listing once again confirms the model ALI-NX1 and confirms the upcoming launch. There’s roughly more information about the device’s specifications and features via the listing.

The 5G-enabled device will come with improved specifications and features. Presently, there are scary details about the device, but considering the predecessor it would be a mid-range device and will carry on the same design language.

Additionally, Honor X9A was introduced last year bundling a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution, 120GHz refresh rate, and 10-bit color panel. It comes powered with Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC, 8GB RAM, and 256GB internal storage. It launched with Android 12 OS and features a 5,100 mAh battery with 40W fast charging support. A triple-rear camera bundling a 64MP primary sensor is present.

In the coming days, we expect more information about the Honor X9B via leaks and certifications. Stay connected for more information.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and Galaxy Tab A9 Plus Indian Pricing Leaks

After the successful launch of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE edition, all eyes are now set on the launch of the next tablet – Galaxy Tab A9 which will carry an affordable price tag. Following previous leaks, the company could launch Galaxy Tab A9 and Galaxy Tab A9+ featuring Snapdragon SoC. The retail price for both tablets in the Indian market is here via famous tipster @yabhishekhd.

Must See: Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 surfaces on GeekBench with Helio G99 & 4GB RAM

As per the Product Price Announcement sheet from Samsung, the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage will be available for Rs 15,999, and the WiFi model will cost Rs 12,999. The Galaxy Tab A9+ Wi-Fi with 4GB RAM + 64GB storage will retail for Rs 18,999 and the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage model will go for Rs 20,999. Meanwhile, the LTE 4GB RAM + 64GB version will cost Rs 22,999 and the 8GB RAM variant will be available for Rs 24,999.

Here’s First Look of Galaxy Tab A9

Following the pricing details, the same tipster published the first image of the Galaxy Tab A9.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and Galaxy Tab A9+ Specs (Expected)

The upcoming Galaxy A series tablet already appeared in multiple certifications and leaks. As per its appearance on Google Play Console, the Galaxy Tab A9+ features the Snapdragon 695 coupling 2 ARM Cortex-A78s. It will bundle a 1200 x 1920 resolution display. It will feature a 7040 mAh battery with 15W fast charging, and dual-band WiFi support as per FCC documents.

The vanilla Galaxy Tab A9 variant hasn’t made it yet to Play Console, but it made a visit to the Geekbench, which reveals certain specifications of the device. It seems bundled with a MediaTek Dimensity Helio G99, 4GB RAM and runs on OneUI 5.1 based on Android 13. As per FCC, it measures 210.7mm x 124.7mm x 6.94mm and couples 5000 mAh battery with 15W fast charging.

Following the past leaks and certification appearance, the Galaxy Tab A series launch is not so far away. We could expect its launch by the end of this year.

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Samsung rolls out October security patch 2023 on Galaxy A54

According to a recent report, Samsung has started releasing an October security update on Galaxy A54 smartphones.

For those unaware, earlier, the company released the October security patch for its Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 smartphones. Now, it seems other smartphone series are also in line for the update.

Samsung Galaxy A54

As per a recent report by SAMmobile, the update arrives with a build version of A546VSQS5AWI1. This new October update is majorly focused on improved security and the device’s stability. So, the users should not expect any new UI features or performance improvements. It is worth mentioning in this latest patch, Samsung has managed to fix over 12 vulnerabilities found in the previous version of the update. For example, the company fixed one critical vulnerability where the breachers were able to execute harmful viruses through the Wi-Fi networks.

Furthermore, the patch is currently live for Verizon’s network users in the USA. Those who wish to upgrade their Galaxy A54 (Amazon) smartphones to the latest update can head over to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install. The company has yet to reveal when the other regions will also be able to receive the update. However, we expect to receive more information in the future.

In related news, earlier leaks have revealed that the S24 series will be powered by Exynos 2400 chips. This means that Exynos chipsets are making a comeback in 2024. Those who wish to know more about this can check our Exynos 2400’s GPU better than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 story here.

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Garmin pushes public beta software v2.56 for the Venu Sq 2

Garmin launched its Venu Sq 2 series in India in October 2022. This series of smartwatches came with a built-in GPS and AMOLED display. The company has recently started its public beta program to test out new features on its eligible watches. The Venu Sq 2 smartwatch owners can opt for the public beta program and become one of these testers.

Now, according to a recent announcement that has surfaced online, the company has recently released a new beta software version for its Venu Sq 2 smartwatches. Let’s go ahead and take a look at what this new update has to offer.

Garmin Venu Sq 2

As per the recent announcement, the Venu Sq 2 (Amazon) smartwatches that were running on the public beta software v2.51 have now been upgraded to v2.56. This new update brings various new improvements to the smartwatch as well as to the Sensor Hub and Graphics. The complete changelog of the new update can be found below.

Garmin Public Beta Software v2.56 for Venu Sq 2 Changelog

  • Changes from 2.51 to 2.56
  1. Add improvements to ANT+ and BLE
  2. Connect IQ bug fixes and improvements
  3. Improve system stability
  • Additional Updates
  1. Sensor Hub- 27.11
  2. Graphics – 1.13

It is worth mentioning if you are an existing member of the Public Beta program, this update will be automatically delivered to your watch through GCM. We expect to receive more beta updates in the future. So stay tuned.

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Hong Kong’s Travel and Online Communities are A Hotspot for Digital Fraud

Hong Kong, renowned for its financial muscle and technological prowess, has an increasingly grim downside: it is becoming a magnet for digital fraudsters, reveals a recent report from TransUnion, an American consumer credit reporting agency.

Most of the scams can be attributed to online payments

The report found that Hong Kong topped the list of regions with high levels of suspected digital fraud, with 18% of digital transactions flagged for potential fraudulent activity in the first half of 2023. This rise in digital scams comes amid a significant uptick in online payments, influenced by the pandemic and subsequent social distancing measures.

Digital Fraud

What sets Hong Kong apart, however, is the sectors most affected. Interestingly, the travel and leisure sector led the way with a suspected fraud rate of 8%. Jerry Ying, chief product officer at TransUnion Asia-Pacific, argues that as the city opens up post-pandemic and digital transactions in the travel sector surge, fraudsters see new opportunities for exploitation.

Besides travel, online communities like dating websites and forums are also becoming risky spaces. Around 5% of transactions in these areas were flagged for fraud, mostly related to fake profiles. This comes at a time when Hong Kong citizens are relying more on digital platforms for social interaction and personal needs.

Last year, citizens lost HK$4.8 billion (US$611.5 million) to frauds, including schemes involving fake police calls and quick money scams. With more professionals (6% of survey respondents) falling victim to fraud between April and July, the message is clear: businesses and consumers alike need to up their game when it comes to digital security.

According to Ying, it’s not just up to consumers to stay vigilant; businesses should allocate resources to improve their data analytics and technological capabilities to better spot fraudulent activity. As Hong Kong continues to balance its technological advancement with fraud risks, both sectors and individuals must be more cautious than ever.

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Polestar Releases Sales Numbers, Sold Almost 14,000 Electric Vehicles in Q3 2023

In a recent announcement, Polestar revealed its electric vehicle (EV) delivery figures for the third quarter of 2023, boasting a 50% year-over-year increase with about 13,900 units. Though a notable rise from last year, the numbers show a dip compared to Q2 2023’s 15,800 and the all-time high of 21,002 in Q4 2022.

This number is still smaller than 15,800 cars in Q2 2023

Despite these fluctuations, what catches attention is the company’s clear emphasis on “value over volume,” backed by strong margins in sales of its upgraded Polestar 2. It’s not just about pushing more cars out of the door; it’s about pushing the right kind of cars.

Polestar 4 Coupe SUV EV Car

This value-centric approach is mirrored in their yearly performance. While they’ve set a lower target for 2023—60,000-70,000 vehicles down from an initial 80,000—Polestar has already delivered approximately 41,700 cars this year, marking a 37% growth from the previous year.

To meet their revised target for the year, Polestar will have to sell anywhere between 18,300 to 28,300 units in Q4. This doesn’t appear too far-fetched, especially with the Polestar 4 slated to begin deliveries in China this quarter, expanding their single-model lineup.

Looking ahead, the automaker has ambitious plans. Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO, indicated that the company is entering “an exciting new period.” With production of the Polestar 3 expected to begin in early 2024 and Polestar 4 making its debut in China, the future does look promising. Moreover, Polestar’s product portfolio through to 2026 hints at a variety of BEV models, including luxury SUVs and a 4-door GT. By adopting this approach, Polestar not only creates a distinctive place in the competitive EV market but also addresses consumer demand for quality electric vehicles. Indeed, for Polestar, less may actually be more.

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Google Pixel 9 Lineup will Have Bigger Displays than its Predecessors, Reliable Leak States

Just days after the launch of Google’s Pixel 8 series, reliable tipster Ross Young has already shifted the spotlight onto the next big thing from the tech giant. Young recently tweeted details about the display sizes for the upcoming Google Pixel 9 series, hinting that the devices will sport larger screens compared to their predecessors.

For a bit of context, the freshly-released Google Pixel 8 comes with a 6.2-inch display, while the Pixel 8 Pro features a slightly larger 6.7-inch screen. Young’s tweet strongly suggests that Google is focusing on enlarging the display area for the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and even the next Pixel Fold. The news comes from Young’s latest “Advanced Smartphone Report,” a document that has previously proven to be accurate in predicting smartphone trends.

Pixel 8 Pro

But why is Google opting for bigger displays? One possible answer is the growing demand for larger screens that facilitate a better multimedia experience. Be it streaming videos, playing games, or multitasking, a bigger screen generally makes life easier. Furthermore, Google’s competitors are also upping the ante with larger displays, so it seems logical for Google to follow suit.

This move, however, raises questions about ergonomics and ease of use. Will a larger display compromise one-handed usability? And what about the battery life? Bigger screens often consume more power, so it remains to be seen how Google will tackle this issue.

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Xiaomi India Introduces Digital Loan Scheme for ‘Affordable’ Smartphone Purchases

Xiaomi continues to expand its product lineup. The company produces both entry-level, mid-range, and flagship smartphones, catering to a wide user base. However, it seems that this isn’t enough for the Chinese tech giant. Aiming to make their products more accessible to more people, Xiaomi has introduced a new program in India called “Xiaomi Easy Finance”. With XEF, customers can get quick and easy digital loan approvals and take advantage of various financial options. Here are the details…

Xiaomi Easy Finance: A new way to buy Xiaomi smartphones in India

Xiaomi Easy Finance or XEF is a digital loan program launched by Xiaomi India. It is designed to provide Indian consumers with flexible and affordable options for purchasing Redmi smartphones. The program is in partnership with Axio, a digital financial services provider, and Trustonic, a security expert. The XEF scheme is available at Mi Homes, Mi Studios, Mi Stores, Mi Preferred Partners, regional retail chains, and all authorized Xiaomi outlets spread across the country.

Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun on Easy Finans

To avail the loan, customers need to submit their KYC documents and PAN card details. The loan application process is digital and paperless, and customers can get instant loan approval. Once the loan is approved, customers can purchase any Xiaomi smartphone at no-cost EMI options. Xiaomi has said that the XEF scheme is designed to make smartphone ownership more affordable and accessible to a larger audience. The company believes that the scheme will help it to further its market reach in India.

The launch of the XEF scheme comes at a time when the Indian smartphone market is growing rapidly. According to Counterpoint Research, the Indian smartphone market grew by 10% in the first quarter of 2023. Xiaomi is the leading smartphone vendor in India with a market share of 23%. The XEF scheme is likely to boost Xiaomi’s sales in India. The scheme will make it easier for customers to purchase Xiaomi smartphones, especially those who are on a tight budget.

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Auto-pilot Anxiety: Consumer Confidence in Self-Driving Cars Declines for Second Year in a Row

The automobile industry continues to adapt to time and advancing technology. The latest pinnacle of this development is self-driving cars. Many brands are chasing this technology, which allows for a journey without the driver’s intervention. Users have been gradually getting accustomed to the presence of self-driving cars in our lives and have been watching its progress with anticipation. However, a recent study by J.D. Power indicates that consumer confidence in fully automated, self-driving vehicles is on the decline. Here are the details…

Consumer Confidence in Self-Driving Cars Declines for Second Year in a Row

Self-driving vehicles have been a part of our lives for some time now and their popularity continues to grow. However, as their usage increases, so does the number of incidents involving them. News of accidents involving these cars frequently becomes a trending topic on the internet and social media. Naturally, this impacts societal psychology.

WeRide

A recent study by J.D. Power found that consumer confidence in fully automated, self-driving vehicles has declined for the second consecutive year. On a scale of 100, trust points went down by 2 points to 37 this year, after already dropping by 5 points last year. The report says people are not ready for self-driving cars in many ways.

They feel least comfortable riding in one or using self-driving buses and trains. Despite the decline in consumer confidence, the study also found that consumers are more open to self-driving cars if they have had experience riding in one. For example, 67% of respondents who had ridden in a robotaxi expressed confidence in the technology.

Of course, this fear won’t change anything. Autonomous-driving vehicles are already reaching more users every day, and it doesn’t seem like users’ fears will alter this trend. Admittedly, this technology isn’t perfect today, which explains why people might feel this way. However, it’s worth noting that self-driving is a relatively new technology. There’s still much room for improvement, and regardless, the future belongs to autonomous technologies.

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Samsung to expand Tizen integration, bringing AI to a broader range of home appliances

During the recent Samsung Developer Conference 2023, Samsung reiterated its strong commitment to advancing smart home technology. They unveiled their plans to extend the use of the Tizen operating system to a wider range of devices, including household appliances featuring 7-inch screens.

Samsung Tizen

Home AI Edge Technology: Bridging the Computational Gap

Samsung’s Tizen is an operating system developed by Samsung Electronics, designed for various devices like smartphones, smartwatches, smart TVs, and other smart appliances. It’s worth noting that Tizen is an open-source, Linux-based platform introduced in 2012, succeeding Samsung’s earlier operating system, Bada.

Tizen already plays a crucial role in Samsung’s smart ecosystem, powering products like Smart TVs, smart monitors, and Family Hub refrigerators.

Samsung‘s ambition is to expand its footprint in the smart home market. However, one of the challenges they face is integrating AI into smaller appliances, which may have computational limitations.

To tackle this challenge, Samsung has introduced Home AI Edge technology, aimed at overcoming these computational constraints. This innovative approach allows less powerful household appliances to request AI services from devices equipped with more robust computational resources, such as stronger CPUs and NPUs. This solution effectively addresses the computational limitations issue.

This approach ensures efficient task execution and resource allocation without the need for every appliance to have powerful hardware. It signifies a new era where household devices can communicate and collaborate, enhancing performance while keeping the focus on design and affordability.

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AOC 27G15 27″ FHD gaming monitor with 180Hz 1ms, HDR10 launched for $149.99

AOC has introduced the 27G15 gaming monitor in the international market, appealing to both new and experienced gamers with its affordable price of $149.99 (Amazon). This monitor provides excellent value for those seeking quality gaming without a hefty price tag. Let’s check out the key specs of this monitor.

AOC 27G15 Gaming Monitor

AOC 27G15 Gaming Monitor Specifications:

The AOC 27G15 features a 27-inch display with a high 180Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay. It boasts a rapid 1ms response time and low input lag mode for an immersive and seamless gaming experience.

Despite its affordable price, the AOC 27G15 gaming monitor maintains high-quality features. It provides Full HD resolution (1920×1080), features DC dimming, and a low blue light design to reduce eye fatigue during long gaming sessions. Additionally, it supports HDR10 for enhanced visuals, displaying vivid colors with a wide 121% sRGB color gamut for a lifelike gaming experience.

The monitor offers excellent ergonomics with customizable height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, allowing users to tailor their viewing experience. Its 3-sided frameless design is ideal for multi-monitor setups, providing an immersive gaming experience with minimal bezel interference, making it versatile for various user needs, from gaming to coding.

AOC ensures this monitor is versatile, making it compatible with popular consoles, allowing up to 120Hz frame rates (based on the specific console), and boasts a low latency mode to give gamers the edge. It’s also packed with essential ports including HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4, ensuring broad connectivity.

A standout feature is the VA panel that delivers high contrast, allowing gamers to spot adversaries even in shadowy game environments. The wide 178/178-degree viewing angles guarantee consistent colors, regardless of the viewer’s position.

The 27G15 is also part of AOC’s G-Series, which comes with a best-in-class warranty program, including a three-year zero-bright-dot guarantee, 3-year advance replacement, and 1-year accidental damage coverage. For those concerned about security in public spaces, AOC has incorporated a Kensington lock.

Paul Chen, AOC’s Director of Product Management, expressed excitement about introducing the 27G15 gaming monitor to the gaming community. He emphasized its outstanding performance, immersive visuals, and ergonomic design, making it an ideal choice for entry-level gamers seeking an exceptional gaming experience.

The monitor is now available to purchase from Amazon. AOC has also unveiled the Gaming 16G3 portable gaming monitor recently featuring a 144Hz refresh rate. In the competitive gaming monitor market, AOC is currently leading, although Xiaomi is gaining ground as a strong competitor.

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Leica’s latest Sofort 2 hybrid instant film camera supports printing from smartphones & other Leica cameras

German camera manufacturing giant Leica has launched the Leica Soft 2 hybrid instant film camera. The Sofort 2 is the direct successor of the Leica Sofort and it is coming seven years after the company first announced the Sofort. The Sofort 2 instant film camera carries a decent price tag of $389 and will be available to buy from November 8.

Leica Sofort 2

The Leica Sofort 2 is quite different from its predecessor in that it has been transformed into a hybrid instant camera. It features a 1/5-inch digital sensor which allows users to choose which photos they want to print, offering greater control over their instant photography experience.

What stands out for me is that me is that the camera allows users to print images captured on their smartphones. This makes it a versatile tool for capturing and preserving memories. In addition, the Sofort 2 allows users to transfer photos taken on other Leica cameras to the Sofort 2 for printing. This is done via Leica’s companion app, FOTOS.

Leica Sofort 2

For those who appreciate design and aesthetics, Leica has introduced two new color options: striking red and classic black, in addition to the timeless white version. The camera also features multiple lenses, a printing lever for added convenience, and ten film effects to enhance creative expression. The inclusion of a macro mode enables users to capture intricate close-up shots with ease.

The Leica Sofort 2 is a direct rival to the likes of Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo and it offers unique advantages, including USB-C support and an expanded range of lenses.

As stated earlier, the Leica Sofort 2 is priced at $389. This is approximately $90 more than its predecessor but given the added features, it appears to be a fair price.


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AnTuTu’s Top-performing Android flagship list for September released: OnePlus Ace 2 Pro retains top spot

Chinese benchmarking outfit AnTuTu has announced its top-performing flagship Android smartphones for the month of September. The list presents no major surprises as the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro retains its top position as the best Android flagship in August as well.

OnePlus-Ace-2-Pro

With a score of 1.66 million points, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro aces the benchmark thanks to a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which is doing most of the hard work. The device also comes with a top-end model with a massive 24GB of RAM and equally massive 1 TB storage.

Li Jie, OnePlus China President, boasts that the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro has no rival at this level in terms of its price/ performance ratio. He touts the device as the most powerful product you can buy at its price. For reference, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro starts at ¥2,999 (~$410), while the 24GB + 1TB model tested by AnTuTu costs just ¥3,999 (~$550).

Antutu september flagship ranking

As is often common with the ranking of the flagship segment over the years, Qualcomm’s latest chipset, in this case, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 continues to dominate. Almost all the phones on the top 10 list are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. The only exception to this is the smartphone occupying the 10th spot – the iQOO Neo8 Pro which is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset.

The rest of the list includes the iQOO 11S in second place with a score of 1,645,443 points. Others are the RedMagic 8S Pro,iQOO 11 Pro, Vivo X90 Pro+, Oppo Find X6 Pro, OnePlus 11, Xiaomi 13 Ultra, and iQOO Neo8 Pro.


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Taiwanese authorities investigate Local Firms’ Huawei links amidst US Sanction

In a move that could exacerbate tensions between the US, China, and Taiwan, Taiwanese authorities have initiated an investigation into four local companies accused of aiding Huawei Technologies in establishing chipmaking facilities in southern China.

The probe, launched by Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, follows a recent Bloomberg report that identified the firms involved. While the collaboration’s potential violation of US trade sanctions against Huawei remains uncertain, Economic Affairs Minister Wang Mei-hua assured lawmakers that no confirmed breach had been established.

Wang stated that the companies in question primarily offered services related to wastewater and environmental protection processes and did not deal with critical technology. Notably, Topco Scientific, one of the firms under scrutiny, confirmed its involvement in environmental protection efforts but denied any transactions involving semiconductor materials or equipment with Huawei.

Another company, United Integrated Services, acknowledged its Chinese subsidiary’s involvement in renovating the interior of a semiconductor manufacturer reportedly linked to Huawei. The company emphasized its compliance with all relevant laws and regulations in various jurisdictions.

These Taiwanese firms are allegedly assisting Huawei in building a network of chip factories in southern China, a collaboration that could further strain relations between Taiwan and the Chinese Communist Party. The situation is especially sensitive due to Taiwan’s presidential election in January and the island’s ongoing tensions with mainland China.

The Taiwanese Ministry of Economic Affairs plans to investigate whether these firms’ activities in China align with the scope of their original applications approved by Taipei. The case raises concerns about potential breaches of US sanctions against Huawei, highlighting the complex web of international technology collaborations in the midst of geopolitical tensions. 

Further updates on the investigation are anticipated within the coming weeks, as Taiwan navigates the delicate balance between economic interests and international relations.

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Android 14 based stable MIUI update rolling out to Xiaomi 13 series and Xiaomi 12T

Google tested Android 14 for many months and yesterday it finally released the public build to the Pixel users. Following the Big G, Xiaomi has now started rolling out a stable MIUI update based on the latest version of Android. The update is being seeded to the Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, and Xiaomi 12T for now.

Xiaomi becomes one of the first OEMs to release stable Android 14 updata

This new update brings these devices up to date, superseding their previous internal MIUI builds. Xiaomi 13 users will receive MIUI-V14.0.5.0.UMCMIXM and MIUI-V14.0.5.0.UMCEUXM, while Xiaomi 13 Pro users can expect MIUI-V14.0.5.0.UMBMIXM and MIUI-V14.0.5.0.UMBEUXM. Xiaomi 12T users, on the other hand, will receive MIUI-V14.0.6.0.ULQMIXM and MIUI-V14.0.5.0.ULQEUXM.

Users of the above-mentioned Xiaomi phones should be able to enjoy all the new features Google introduced with Android 14. The new software should bring a lot of personalization options, allowing you to set custom lock screen shortcuts for quick access to your favorite apps. It is also bringing support for HDR images with Ultra HDR which helps your photos look more vibrant.

With Android 14, Google also introduced native spatial audio support, cross-device copy and paste, and a new media player. Privacy and security have been given significant attention as well. Android 14 features Health Connect, a privacy-centric solution that securely stores and encrypts all personal health data directly on your device. In addition, users will receive notifications when apps seek to access their location data for third-party sharing, granting them the ability to deny access to such data.

Android 14 has also improved passkey support, now offering fingerprint authentication capabilities for third-party applications and an updated 6-digit PIN lockscreen option. You also get new accessibility features like improved magnification with pinch-to-zoom and variable magnification sizes.

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